Sporting Kansas City have returned to the top of the Eastern Conference following a hard-fought win away at Columbus Crew.

Peter Vermes's side took the lead after six minutes when Jacob Peterson latched onto Peterson Joseph's through ball before firing a low right-footed drive past Andy Gruenebaum from six yards.

Columbus responded excellently to falling behind but, despite Emilio Renteria, Justin Meram and Bernardo Anor all having good chances to equalise, Kansas held onto their slender advantage at half time.

The hosts continued to dominate the match in terms of chances and possession after the break, but Teal Bunbury sealed all three points for his side with eight minutes remaining as he provided the finishing touch to a quick counter-attack, which had been led by Kei Kamara.